Although it is lesser-known to divers when compared to the world
famous Sipadan, Sabah’s western coast is conveniently located close
to the bustling city of Kota Kinabalu.
With a focus on the 5 islands surrounding TARP (Tunku
Abdul Rahman Marine Park), the waters here are turquoise and
teeming with life.

Kota Kinabalu is a a good option for those who want to learn diving
(PADI, SSI...) at a discounted rate prior diving the world famous
Sipadan
area.

The main islands for scuba diving and snorkeling are:

Gaya island

Sapi island

Mantanani island

Manukan island

Mamutik island

Sulug island

Scuba Diving

Sapi Island is a good choice for those learning to dive or first-time
divers, however it is not just suitable for newbies. For those with
experience in scuba diving, Sapi Island has an artificial reef filled
with juvenile rock cod, tiny shrimp, a variety of anemones and clownfish
species and striped catfish.

Scuba diving around the islands of TARP is a great way to prepare
for the more challenging dives at Sipadan. Each of the 5 islands
has a sandy sea floor at between 60 to 80 feet and plenty of coral
varieties on the reefs encircling each island. Coral enthusiasts
will be pleased to see these thriving coral varieties include staghorn
plateaus, coral whips, branching plate coral and bommies.

Divers should also look out for large shoals of barracuda around
Barracuda Bonanza. You might also be lucky enough to spot a hawksbill
turtle or two and larger varieties of cuttlefish.

Borneo Reef World

Moored to the sea floor at Pulau Gaya, Borneo Reef World is just
a 30 minute boat trip from Kota Kinabalu. This activity pontoon
is the biggest in Asia and is similar to the likes of the ones at
the Great Barrier Reef. This is a nice and easy option for those
looking to get a great snapshot at the marine life in the South
China Sea.